The Parti Québécois (PQ) is set to contest a crucial byelection today in the riding of Chicoutimi, which they aim to win for the fourth time in a row. This area has historically been a stronghold for the PQ, but it has been challenged recently by the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), which won the seat in both 2018 and 2022 through Andrée Laforest. Following Laforest's exit from provincial politics in September, the seat has become vacant, creating an opportunity for the PQ to reclaim their influence in the region.

Francis Tremblay is the CAQ candidate competing to retain the seat, while Marie-Karlynn Laflamme represents the PQ, reflecting a critical showdown between the two parties. Additionally, candidates from the Conservative Party, Québec solidaire, and the Liberal Party are also participating, indicating a competitive landscape as the provincial elections approach. The polling numbers indicate a favorable outlook for the PQ, who are not only focusing on this byelection but are also gearing up for the upcoming provincial election scheduled for the fall.

The political climate is quite dynamic, especially as CAQ is navigating a leadership contest of its own, given Premier François Legault's announcement of stepping down. For PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, this byelection is pivotal; he has pledged to hold a sovereignty referendum by 2030 if elected premier, which highlights the ongoing debate around provincial sovereignty that could influence voters and shape the future political landscape in Quebec. This byelection, therefore, serves as both a litmus test for the current political sentiments in Quebec and a precursor to larger electoral battles ahead.